'85 Thunderbird Information

[Rs2sensen]

My uncle recently gave me a 1985 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe as a free gift, as I've needed a second vehicle on the cheap (and free is as good as can be). The car has somewhere between 70,000-100,000 miles, but does have a new clutch and relatively new brakes.

This weekend, I plan on replacing the Master Cylinder, which was damaged some time ago, and will also replace the fuel pump and the fuel pump relay. The car has plenty of spark, but won't start, and it sat in a barn for some time, only ran once a year or so. I think whatever gasoline that was in the tank did the pump in.

I'll also go through some of the electrical, change out filters, etc. and also deal with anything mice may have damaged. The vehicle has never been driven in the snow/winter, so the exterior is immaculate.

Here are my questions...
The fuel gauge stopped working some time ago, and I believe the fuel tank sending unit is to blame. However, I can't find one listed on any auto parts websites anywhere. Where can I find one? Can I easily use one designed for another vehicle, possibly from the same era? If so, which?

Is there anything else I should look at replacing right off the bat while I have the fuel tank dropped to change the fuel pump?

Are there any other quirks to the car I should keep an eye out for?

Thanks!

[97Bird]

When you remove the sending unit from the tank drain out all of the old gas and blow out the lines so you know you have fresh gas reaching the engine. Use a flashlight and look inside the tank to see if there is any rust or debris that can be cleaned out. New spark plugs and wires would be a good idea on a car that old. Check the vacuum lines to be sure none are cracked or brittle. It would be a good idea to replace them also.
AutoZone lists a in tank fuel pump assembly pn 2084H for $166. You can always ask at a dealer to see if they can get one or go to a dealers parts website (Bob Utter Ford for one). I think some turbo's had an external fuel pump so make sure you know which one you have before shopping.